RSL Life

ISSUE 1

YOUR CLUB GUIDE

IN THIS ISSUE

Venues get some TLC

WIN A CAR

SPECIAL BINGO

www.herveybayrsl.com.au Torquay Rd,4197 Pialba.7444 4197 7444 www.herveybayrsl.com.au 11 Torquay11 Road, Pialba.

www.herveybayrsl.com.au

11 Torquay Road, Pialba 4197 7444

ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Courtesy Bus: 1300 775 287

Courtesy Bus: 1300 775 278

WELCOME

CONTENTS

AFTER what has been an incredibly tough few months for the community and our much-loved patrons, the Hervey Bay RSL team are delighted to be back in business.

3 Venues Get Some TLC 5 Lucky Winner 6 Rally For A Cause Dunga Derby 7 Special Bingo 8-11 Community Grants Boosting confidence with renovations RSL helps historical village keep their cool Lending a hand for good mental health Safety first for bay gymnasts

13 RSL Entertainment 15 Gaming In Style

CEO Jason Lynch would also like to extend a big thank you to patrons who have been patient and kind with all the staff, who have been going above and beyond to provide a Covid-safe environment for everyone.

There's been some exciting renovations in the club during the Covid-19 shutdown with a new look on the outside and fresh new carpet on the inside, all mentioned here in the very first edition of RSL Life – the club's vibrant new community magazine.

As set out by the Industry Covid Safe Plan, it is a legal requirement to give your name and address when entering the club to ensure that, if required, effective contact tracing can occur.

Every 6 weeks, copies of this wonderful magazine will be distributed to letter boxes around Hervey Bay.

16 Community Groups and Clubs

There are so many awesome things that happen here at the club and in the community, and we want to share that with you on these pages.

17 Diggers Light Up The Dawn

In this edition you can read about the lucky winner of the MG3 in the club's last community raffle, meet the stars of Wednesday's Bingo and read about how the Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants Program is assisting local charities and community groups in need.

GRILL

18 Easy Step Up To Best View THE

CLUBHOUSE HERVEY BAY

20 On Par With The Best

Get up to date with all the exciting things happening at The Clubhouse Hervey Bay and Bayswater Bar & Grill, including a sneak peek of some future renovations.

23 Swinging Back In To Action 23 The Clubhouse Entertainment

Welcome Back!

From dinner in the Sandy Bay Restaurant, lunch in Poppies Café or a flutter in the gaming room, it's been a wonderful sight to see our patrons walking back through the door to enjoy everything the club has to offer.

If an exit time is not listed on the sign-in sheet and a patron tests positive to Coronavirus, you are deemed to be at the club during the same period as the other patron and will be forced to self-isolate.

To ensure we are doing the very best for our patrons, it's important to adhere to these rules.

There are only a few months left in 2020 and we're hoping to make it a cracker!

Now that some restrictions have eased, we are pleased to welcome back some of our regular promotions featured on page 15, as well as Poker and the ever-popular Trivia Nights.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and website for updates.

Welcome to RSL Life, where the community matters most.

FREE MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FOR CURRENT MEMBERS!

Some great news for our members is that for all those who were full club members at the time we closed you will automatically be given a bonus year on your membership for free. 3 year members will also receive an extra

year for free. You are not required to do anything at all, your existing membership card will continue to give you access to all your member benefits for another year. You will not be required to get a new card, simply

keep using your existing card when we reopen. There may be a few changes to the club initially, such as major promotions and entertainment, but as restrictions ease we will resume these.

Jason Lynch Hervey Bay RSL CEO

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RENOVATIONS

VENUES GET SOME TLC HAVING to close the doors of the Hervey Bay RSL and The Clubhouse for months during the pandemic was devastating for the hundreds of staff and patrons.

However, during such gloomy times there was a positive outlook from management, who used the time wisely to make some remarkable changes to each of the venues during the shutdown.

Hervey Bay RSL CEO Jason Lynch said while the doors were closed, several local trades were contracted to carry out some exciting renovations.

The last refurbishment at the club was undertaken in 2013, so Mr Lynch said it was the perfect time to get the much needed freshen up done.

Before even walking in the doors of the RSL, patrons are welcomed with a fresh new coat of paint to 80% of the exterior.

Inside, the worn flooring was taken up and replaced with a variety of bold, bright and inviting carpet in the Sports Bar, the Bistro and the Gaming Room.

The new carpet in the dining area makes it more inviting than ever, not to mention the delightful 'new carpet' smell.

“We also reconfigured the gaming room, so the layout now gives a feeling of more space,” Mr Lynch said.

“We refurbished the panelling in front of the bistro, added a fresh feature wall, new paint and brought in new chairs for the deck area, which is always popular with our patrons.

back in the full swing of things, Mr Lynch said it was important to maintain a Covid-safe environment for all staff and patrons, with guests asked to follow social distancing and hygiene rules.

The last time it was all updated was towards the end of 2013, so it was nice to be able to get to work and freshen up the atmosphere for patrons.

“I appreciate the members who have come back to enjoy everything we have to offer.

“Hopefully the virus is contained and fingers crossed that we don't have to go through it all again.

At the Clubhouse in Point Vernon, golfers are back on the greens and guests are excited to once again be able to dine in for lunch and dinner.

Inside, patrons will notice a fresh coat of paint, new vinyl flooring around the bar and bistro area and an extra bit of greenery with some new plants placed around the club.

As well as renovations, management understands that patrons have been through a difficult time in the past few months and as a thank you for their support, have extended patrons 2020-21 financial year memberships.

“We are pleased to give all current members 12 months free membership, so no need to renew your membership when you visit, the extension will carry over automatically.”

While all the venues are

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“We do still have some restrictions in place, so please be patient with our staff when you're in the club.

“We appreciate your understanding.”

“It's a legal requirement to give your name and address, just so if something goes wrong, we have the ability to get back in contact with you.

Keep up to date with what's happening at the club on Facebook or the website at www.herveybayrsl.com.au.

LUCKY

WINNER The Hervey Bay resident and regular patron of the RSL was the lucky winner of the car after buying just three tickets in the club's online Community Raffle.

With only 2000 tickets sold, David and his wife thought they would try their luck by buying three entries, totalling $30.

“It's certainly by far the biggest win we have ever had … I think a meat tray would be the second,” David said. “We were delighted to get the news.”

It was perfect timing for the couple,

BEING handed a set of keys to a brand new MG3 was momentous for David Stephenson.

Transformations, Hervey Bay VMR and the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch.

who were toying with the idea of upgrading their RAV4 but decided it wasn't the right time.

The groups are all usually recipients of funds from the RSL's Community Grants Program, designed to provide financial, in-kind and fundraising opportunities to local not-for-profit organisations struggling to gain support.

With only room for one vehicle, the two decided to take advantage of the major windfall and trade in their old vehicle and upgrade to the new car they wanted.

“We won the MG and that gave us the opportunity to upgrade to a new RAV4.

But while the club was closed for trade during the COVID-19 crisis, the committee had to find another way

“We were really overjoyed.” It was a win-win for David and local community groups, including the Hervey Bay PCYC, We Care 2, Bayside

to continue to support the charities.

Thanks to the raffle each one of these groups will now receive $1500

to put in their coffers.

Hervey Bay's Megan Olsen was also a lucky winner of the raffle, winning the second prize of $1000 cash.

A special thanks must also go to Wide Bay Motor Group for their support with purchasing the car and getting David and his wife behind the wheel of their new RAV4.

A second car is currently being raffled, once again with proceeds going to community groups. Tickets on sale at www.herveybayrsl.com.au

Help your community and

WIN A CAR! Tickets

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$ COMMUN RAFFLE ITY

2nd PRIZE $1,000 CASH ONLY 2000 TICKETS SOLD

MOTOR GROUP

P roceedsSupporting

QLD

HE

Tickets available at: www.herveybayrsl.com.au 5

R V E Y B AY

COMMUNITY GRANTS

BOOSTING CONFIDENCE WITH RENOVATIONS WITH dilapidated rooms in desperate need of some TLC, Bayside Transformations volunteer Pam Gregory knew she had to help.

As the Community Director of the Hervey Bay Sunrise Rotary Club at the time, Pam's vision to get funding and revamp the rooms came to fruition with the help of hard yakka from Rotary volunteers and a $2500 grant from the Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants Program.

The not-for-profit Hervey Bay drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre's five bedrooms can house between 22-25 men at any time, with two lots of double bunks and one single bed in each room.

After doing the first room, it really gave us the incentive to continue doing them until they are all done.

Pam said the old gun metal grey roof, eggshell yellow walls and worn carpet in two of the completed rooms was now a thing of the past.

Three more rooms will be renovated in the coming months, complete with new carpet, blinds, paint, refurbished ensuite and new bedding.

Pam said the fresh new look made all the difference to the centre's clients.

“The guys came and collected their bedding after we finished, and the smiles on their faces and the fact that just someone cares have made a big difference,” she said.

“After doing the first room, it really gave us the incentive to continue doing them until they are all done.”

With the Hervey Bay Sunrise Rotary Club's fundraising activities coming to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pam said the RSL grant went a long way.

DOING the essential day-to-day computer work has been made easier for the team at Bayside Transformations.

The Residential Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation in Hervey Bay is a not-for-profit program, which focuses on bringing change to the social, psychological and behavioural dimensions of substance use through support and programs from qualified staff.

“It really helped a lot.

“It covered the paint, the floor coverings and all the bedding for almost two rooms.”

So, the need for fast, accurate and reliable computer systems to carry out these programs was a must.

Bayside director Tina Davie said the renovations have helped the men feel like they have value and worth in the community.

After a successful application to the Hervey Bay RSL Community Grants Program for six new computers, the centre is now in a new era of IT. Bayside Transformations spokeswoman Lisa Love said the new systems replaced the outdated computers and software they had been struggling with for the past six years.

“The bedrooms were in a terrible state and the carpet and the nice paint has really made the difference in making them feel like they have a nice bedroom.

“These computers will be used by long-term employees that spend most of their day on the computer doing accounting, case management, reports, data input, assessments and more.

“This (donation) will strongly benefit our organisation by being able to provide a more professional and efficient work area for staff, and less time and money spent on computer maintenance and date software.”

“We want to really thank everyone for supporting us and helping these men and women on their road to recovery.”

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RSL HELPS HISTORICAL VILLAGE KEEP THEIR COOL A $660 grant from the Hervey Bay RSL is helping the volunteers at the Hervey Bay Historical Village and Museum keep their cool during some incredibly difficult times.

The gates to the museum have been closed for several months due to Coronavirus, and all their fundraising events and group visits cancelled.

After losing thousands of dollars in fundraising revenue, the not-forprofit tourist attraction was grateful for the club's support.

Volunteer Brian Taylor said the funds were used to buy a new fridge for their canteen – a vital piece of equipment used to keep food and drinks cold for big events and

everyday visitors to the museum.

“The generosity of the Hervey Bay RSL is very much appreciated,” Mr Taylor said. “The end result is that we are able to sell food and drink to the public at extremely low prices,

During the closure, Mr Taylor – a master woodworker – also crafted some handmade wooden bowls to help with the museum's fundraising efforts.

compared to outside venues.

“We frequently have large groups visiting the museum and the need to have cold drinks available is vital.”

They are on sale at the front office for about $15 each.

The fridge is now being put to good use since the museum has reopened.

COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM 2020 Supporting the community that supports us...

We strive to make unique and significant contributions and sponsorships to proudly support our local community. Last year the Hervey Bay RSL proudly donated over $474,000 to local organisations, groups & individuals.

Community Grants are now open, if you know of an individual or community group that could benefit from our Community Grants program, you can find further details and our application form is now available online www.herveybayrsl.com.au/contact-us or contact Sarah Bailey on 4197 7444.

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COMMUNITY GRANTS (CONTINUED)

LENDING A HAND FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH EACH week, the handful of dedicated volunteers at We Care 2 assist about 750 Fraser Coast residents who are doing it tough.

They offer emergency relief food vouchers, low-cost shopping at their on-site supermarket for pension card holders, and free breakfast for the homeless three days a week from their food van at Apex Park.

The need for extra support in the local community is needed now more than ever, said We Care 2 Operations Manager Jan Carlson.

With more demands, pressure and stress being placed on families and individuals during the Coronavirus pandemic, she said providing help to locals in need was crucial.

Fully qualified counsellor Carol Yates is available 17 hours a week and is so popular that her diary is booked up for weeks in advance.

“There was such a need and Carol was booked so far ahead that we increased her hours,” Ms Carlson said.

“One of the things that happens with our emergency relief clients, is quite often – because of the financial stress they are going through – they need help with their mental health and that's where we can refer a lot of those clients to Carol. build that relationship and give them the chance to flourish in their life.

“It just gives us a great extension to our services.”

We just wouldn’t be able to do free counselling sessions without the funding from the RSL so it’s very highly valued.

These essential services are provided to the community with the help of local and national sponsors, including the Hervey Bay RSL who donates $3000 a month to the service through their Community Grants Program.

Ms Carlson said the RSL's funding was integral in being able to provide free counselling to clients - a highly valued service that has been met with high demand since starting five years ago.

“If they had to pay to take that first step to get counselling, that probably wouldn't happen.

Ms Yates said the financial support from the RSL allows the service to provide counselling for free rather than costing about $80 a session – a factor that often stops people from taking the first step in getting help.

“Even in one session, to see the amount of load that comes through and then to see someone out with a smiling face is enough gratification for me.”

“It can be the thing that could stop these people from going ahead and getting help.

Some of Ms Yates clients have even gained enough confidence to give back and become volunteers at We Care 2.

“We just wouldn't be able to do free counselling sessions without the funding from the RSL so it's very highly valued.”

Homeless Support:

§

the We Care 2 food van every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6.30am to 7.30am at Apex Park, Esplanade. Blankets and toiletries also available.

“It's all really feelgood stuff. It's a win-win in many ways.

Ms Yates said seeing the difference the counselling, and We Care 2's associated services, makes in her clients' lives was a highlight of the job.

“That's what our service is all about, because we care.”

Emergency relief is available every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am to 11.30am

“Say for instance, single parents dealing with financial concerns and accommodation issues, when you are able to put those supports around them and get some support with food and counselling, they

§ § §

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Food vouchers Script vouchers Telstra vouchers

Free breakfast is available from

Counselling:

§

Free onsite counselling is available on Tuesday and Friday from 8.45am to 3pm, and Wednesday's from 8.45am to 11am.

SAVE

Members

6

C

PER LITRE ULP 91, E10 DIESEL

SAVE

8

C

PER LITRE PREMIUM 95 & 98

GET YOUR FREE FREEDOM FUELS

SAVE

DISCOUNT CARD

5

%

OFF*

IN STORE GOODS*

SEE RECEPTION TO RECEIVE YOUR CARD

s d r a w e R Rewarding our members every day!

Ruby Emerald Sapphire Diamond

*Terms & conditions apply

Discounts on restaurant, café, bar, bottleshop and show tickets Member’s only promotions Birthday vouchers Food and beverage discount Birthday rewards (gaming only) Visitation points Special event invitations, gifts

Every time you use your membership card throughout the club you will earn both Premier Reward Points and Ratings. Use your points to purchase food, beverages, pokie cash, vouchers, or just cold hard cash!

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Daily Specials Monday Night

3 COURSE ROAST

Soup of the day, Chef’s choice of roast with seasonal vegetables, rich gravy and dessert of the day. $14.90 Members PLUS... Kids Eat Free! $18.90 Non Members

Topper selection is an additional $3.00* *Parmigiana, BBQ Pulled Pork, Salsa & cheese, Bacon & cheese

$14.90 Members $18.90 Non Members

CHICKEN & BARRA NIGHT

Choose either Sous Vide Chicken or Battered Barramundi, served with chips and salad.

Thursday Night

Your choice of menu sauce with the chicken

STEAK NIGHT

300g Rump Steak cooked to your liking, with chips and either salad or seasonal vegetables. $18.50 Members Served with your choice of menu sauce. $22.50 Non Members

Kids Eat Free

Choose from a great selection of specials. Changes fortnightly

SCHNITZEL NIGHT

Delicious golden crumbed schnitzel served with chips, salad and your choice of sauce. PLUS... Kids Eat Free!

$17.90 Members $21.90 Non Members

$12 LUNCH SPECIALS

All only $12.00 each

Tuesday Night

Wednesday Night

Monday to Sunday

Fri Night & Sun Lunch COMPLIMENTARY WINE Purchase any two main meals (excluding specials) & receive a complimentary bottle of wine* to enjoy with your meal. *Choose from selected wines

Sunday Night PIZZA NIGHT Delicious range to choose from, with at least 3 $10 options available.

From $10.00 Members $13.00 Non Members

Kids eat free every Monday, Tuesday & Saturday nights.

Kids eat free from kids menu with any main meal purchased, must be U14yrs & present.

Corner Tooth Street and Old Maryborough Road, Pialba. Phone 4124 111 www.theclubhouseherveybay.com.au THE

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CLUBHOUSE HERVEY BAY

For more information on our functions at The Clubhouse, or for any enquires.. please phone Iona or Alisha on 4124 1177 to plan your next event.

Designing & Coordinating events suited to your needs!

A unique venue on the Fraser Coast with dedicated staff, fine food and a wonderful setting to suit all your function needs.

Your Vision...

Your Style...

Your Event...

We can make it happen!

Beautiful setting overlooking the 9th green, catering up to 100 guests, with current COVID restrictions.

Our chefs will create a menu to suit your budget and style.

The Green view deck offers a stunning view of the 18th green, perfect for parties for up to 30 seated. Our platters are great for a relaxed get together, celebration or party.

HOLE-IN

NE

Y COURTESHE BUS TO TUSE CLUBHOLE ON AVAILABAY & FRID Y SATURDA NIGHTS

Try your luck in our Hole in One Gaming Room & take advantage of our premium loyalty Program every time you use your membership card at the Clubhouse

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COURTESY BUS

GAMING ROOM

TO ARRANGE PICK UP: 4124 1177

61 POKER MACHINES

DUNDOWRAN BUS RUN: 6PM PICK UP 9PM DROP OFF FRIDAY & SATURDAY ONLY

THE

CLUBHOUSE HERVEY BAY

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